Man Utd Open Door to Kobbie Mainoo Offers Ahead of January Window After Bournemouth Draw Incident

‎Manchester United have reportedly adjusted their position on Kobbie Mainoo as the January transfer window approaches, with the club now open to considering offers after previously dismissing all interest. Although Ruben Amorim remains keen to retain the midfielder at Old Trafford, limited playing time and increasing external attention mean United are no longer ruling out any scenario.

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Manchester United are now willing to consider exceptional offers for Kobbie Mainoo in January amid reduced game time and growing attention around his role.

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‎United have softened their previously firm stance on Mainoo ahead of January, moving away from an outright refusal to entertain any form of departure. While the club’s preference is still to keep the midfielder, they are now willing to listen if what they regard as an “exceptional” offer is made, according to Sky Sports.

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‎This shift follows heightened discussion around Mainoo’s lack of Premier League starts under Amorim. The 20-year-old has yet to begin a league match this season, a notable change from last year when he became a regular presence in midfield and one of United’s most relied-upon players.

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‎Attention intensified further during United’s 4-4 draw with Bournemouth, when Mainoo’s brother was seen wearing a “Free Kobbie Mainoo” T-shirt at Old Trafford. The image spread widely online and highlighted growing frustration over the midfielder’s role, even as supporters warmly applauded him after he came on from the bench in the second half.

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‎Despite the updated position, United are not actively pushing for Mainoo’s sale. Sky Sports News reports that the club still views the England international as an important part of Amorim’s long-term plans and expects him to continue developing with age, experience, and tactical understanding.

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‎However, unlike earlier in the campaign, United are no longer completely closed to discussions. Several Premier League clubs are keeping a close watch on Mainoo’s situation, though only a limited number would realistically be able to afford a permanent transfer. Any deal would still require an offer United deem exceptional.

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‎From both financial and sporting viewpoints, the club remain cautious. Mainoo’s relatively low wages, linked to his academy progression, mean a loan move would offer minimal benefit. A temporary exit would also force United to bring in midfield cover, increasing costs and potentially upsetting squad balance mid-season.

‎Mainoo’s current situation marks a sharp contrast to his rapid rise last season. Under Erik ten Hag, he secured a regular place in the first team and later started for England in the European Championship final in Berlin, appearing to establish himself as one of the nation’s standout young midfielders.

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‎This season, opportunities have been limited. Aside from playing the entire second half against Burnley in August, Mainoo has not featured for more than 30 minutes in any Premier League match. His only full appearance came in the Carabao Cup loss to Grimsby Town, which ended United’s run in the competition.

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‎At international level, progress has also slowed. Mainoo last represented England in September 2024 and has yet to play under new head coach Thomas Tuchel. With the World Cup approaching in the summer, the lack of regular club minutes could affect his chances of re-establishing himself on the international stage.

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‎For now, Manchester United’s stance remains focused on keeping Mainoo at Old Trafford and gradually reintegrating him into Amorim’s plans. The Portuguese coach has explained that the issue is mainly tactical, with Mainoo competing for a role currently held by the club captain in a system featuring two central midfielders.

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‎January is therefore set to be a crucial period. United are now willing to assess interest rather than reject it outright, but any move will depend on both the size of an offer and Mainoo’s response to his current role. Unless a truly exceptional bid arrives, he is expected to stay and compete for his place, though the club’s new openness has made his future one to watch as the window nears.